MN SF2746

Provider-based clinics must provide written notice to patients prior to nonemergency services stating that the clinic is part of a hospital and patients may receive separate charges for facility fees that could increase out-of-pocket expenses.

Health care facilities must post prominent statements on their websites and in easily accessible patient locations disclosing that provider-based clinics are hospital-affiliated and may charge separate facility fees.

"Facility fee" is defined as a separate charge by a provider-based clinic in addition to physician professional fees, intended to cover building, electronic medical records systems, billing, and administrative and operational expenses.

"Provider-based clinic" means an off-campus clinic or provider office located at least 250 yards from main hospital buildings, owned by a hospital or health system, providing diagnostic and therapeutic care; excludes laboratory, x-ray, testing, therapy, pharmacy, or educational-only services and rural health clinics.

The disclosure requirements do not apply to laboratory services, imaging services, or other ancillary health services provided by staff not employed by the health care facility or clinic.